Police search for Luke Berwick continues around Waikato, fixed-wing aircraft used

Police have used fixed-wing aircraft in the continued search for Hamilton resident Luke Berwick.

Berwick, 31, was reported missing by his family on Friday after being out of contact since September 24.

He was last seen in Raglan. Police understand he intended to go fishing.

A police spokesperson said today that a fixed-wing aircraft has been used by police in their search and rescue efforts.

“Search areas include Luke’s last known locations including land and sea around Raglan and immediate areas.

“Police are asking anyone who has seen Luke, and not yet reported it to police, to get in touch as we continue our search.”

Another police spokesperson told the Waikato Herald the purpose of the aircraft was to “cover more ground” and sight areas of interest for ground searches.

The spokesperson said police remain in contact with Berwick’s family, providing any updates as the search continues.

Search efforts are being co-ordinated from the Raglan Police Station. Coastguard Raglan were involved in the search over the weekend.

Luke Berwick, 31, was last seen in Raglan.

Police first called for the public’s assistance on Saturday morning in a police statement that was also posted on social media.

“The 31-year-old Hamilton man is believed to have been staying at the Raglan Holiday Park since September 23, with the intention of going fishing,” the statement said.

“He was last in contact with family on Tuesday, 24 September and police and his family are concerned.”

The statement said Berwick has “good knowledge of the Raglan area and fishes from the wharf at the end of Wallis St, Raglan mouth, Ngaranui, Wainui, Manu Bay, and Ruapuke rocks”.

Anyone who has seen Berwick or has any information not yet reported to should contact police online now or call 105 using the reference number 240927/5606.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Maryana Garcia is a Hamilton-based reporter covering breaking news in Waikato. She previously wrote for the Rotorua Daily Post and Bay of Plenty Times.